Euromarina Optimist Torrevieja at Real Club Náutico de Torrevieja - Day 3
by Prensa Sailing Comunicación 1 Feb 06:44 AEDT
29 January - 1 February 2026
As forecast, adverse weather conditions prevailed in Torrevieja, with winds exceeding 30 knots forcing the cancellation of the third day of racing. At approximately 3:00 p.m., the Race Committee displayed the "Intelligence on A" signal ashore, formally announcing the suspension of all scheduled races for the day. The event now looks ahead to the fourth and final day of competition, with the first warning signal planned for between 9:15 and 9:30 a.m., subject to weather conditions.
The third day of the Euromarina Optimist Torrevieja was interrupted today due to adverse weather conditions, reminding us that, in sailing, nature always sets the pace. The forecasts were accurate, and winds exceeding 30 knots forced the race committee to temporarily suspend the competition, prioritising the safety of the sailors and support staff.
After the coaches' meeting at 10:00 a.m., the technical management decided to hoist the postponement signal on shore with a three-hour wait. To assess the situation first-hand, a team of markmen went to the race area and checked the actual wind and sea conditions. The readings obtained confirmed that, in the short term, it was not feasible to start a race, ruling out the possibility of competing today, Saturday. Even so, the committee waited on shore in case there was a window of opportunity for the wind to drop, but this did not happen.
At approximately 3:00 p.m., the Race Committee hoisted the "Intelligence on A" signal ashore, officially bringing the third day of competition to an early close. The bay remained calm and quiet, as participants, coaches, and spectators now turn their attention to the fourth and final day of racing, with the first warning signal scheduled between 9:15 and 9:30 a.m., pending weather conditions.
"The safety of the sailors is our top priority," said Luky Serrano, Chief Race Officer from Cádiz. "Today, the wind intensity exceeded the safe limits for racing in Optimist boats. Decisions like this, although always difficult, are common in high-level competitive sailing, as weather conditions—even when forecasted—can change rapidly and directly impact the race course".
With two races completed on Thursday and Friday, Nicolás Bastard (RCMA-R. Sporting Club) from Vizcaya leads the standings after winning both races. Behind him is Alonso Blanco (CN El Balís) from Catalonia, with a total of 7 points, while the provisional bronze medal goes to Nicholas Koekkoek (GWV de Vrijbuiter) from the Netherlands, with 8 points. The first woman in the standings is Mª Antonia Peñalver (CN Mar Menor), who occupies fifth place overall.
The fourth and final day, scheduled for tomorrow, promises renewed excitement. The organisers have scheduled the first race to start at around 9:15-9:30 a.m., when the wind is expected to return to safer conditions for sailing. This final day will be decisive in determining the top positions in a regatta that brings together the emerging talents of the Optimist class in the unique setting of Torrevieja Bay.
The Euromarina Optimist Torrevieja is not only a sporting event, but also an opportunity to promote the values of grassroots sport: camaraderie, respect for nature and personal achievement. Today's suspension is a reminder that, although competition is important, harmony with the environment and the safety of the sailors always prevail.